Pharisees – The Pharisees are one of two major Jewish groups mentioned in the New Testament. The other major group is the Sadducees. Pharisees were known for careful observance of the smallest commands in the law of Moses. However, they missed the larger ideas (Matthew 23:23; Luke 11:39; 18:12). Many of their beliefs were correct. Their careful obedience and doctrinal correctness might seem like good things. However, their beliefs did not change their hearts. Their system of religion was only external obedience without a changed heart (Matthew 15:8). This did not please God. It was not enough to get them into God’s kingdom (Matthew 5:20). Their hair-splitting approach to religion actually denied God’s word (Matthew 15:1–9). They made many rules which they did not keep (Matthew 23:3). John the Baptist and Jesus called them a “brood of vipers” (Matthew 3:7; 12:34). The Pharisees were well known for their self-righteousness and their pride (Matthew 9:11; Luke 7:39; 18:11-12). They were frequently rebuked by the Lord Jesus (Matthew 12:39; 16:1-4).
From the very beginning of Jesus’ ministry the Pharisees were bitter and persistent enemies toward Him. They hated his teaching, and they tried to publicly embarrass Him with questions. The Pharisees began the plot to kill Jesus (John 11:47–57). (Quoted and adapted from the public domain Easton’s Bible Dictionary).